What happens after you apply

The court can recommend a paternity test to help it decide whether a man is the child’s father. These tests are also known as parentage tests. There are 2 basic types of paternity tests:

PCR: In this test a swab is used to collect a DNA sample from the inside of the cheek of the man and the child. Results take up to 1 week.

RFLP: This test needs a larger sample of DNA, from a blood test. Blood will be taken from the man and the child.

If the court orders a paternity test, the costs of DNA testing are usually shared between the mother and the alleged father. If paternity is established, the mother can ask for the full cost to be paid by the father. If you can’t afford this, you might be able to get legal aid to help pay for DNA testing.